Solano EDC hires new President and CEO

January 19 2022

The Solano Economic Development Corporation is pleased to announce that Chris Rico has been hired as its next President/CEO.

 

“After a comprehensive search and interviewing very experienced and capable candidates, we are excited that Chris will be our new President/CEO. He brings a track record of innovation and has a diverse background that we believe will serve Solano well” noted Celia Esposito-Noy, Chair of the Solano EDC Board of Directors.

 

Chris previously led the Center for Innovation at the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC). He built Innovate LA, which is a multi-week, countywide festival in Los Angeles that celebrates and highlights the innovation taking place in Los Angeles. Over 150 different events were held as part of Innovate LA.

 

 Innovate LA was recognized as the grand prize winner for economic development programs by the California Association for Local Economic Development in 2018.

 

Chris also led the LAEDC’s work with the Digital Media and Entertainment industries.

 

Prior to the LAEDC, Chris worked in multiple roles in film and television development and production in Hollywood. He also has worked on political campaigns and served as a special needs educator. He consulted with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation on education issues.

 

“Chris has a diverse background which we think is a real asset. He is creative, innovative and understands the role of economic development in providing economic opportunities for businesses and residents of our county. I know he is excited to work and live in Solano” stated Celia Esposito-Noy.

 

Chris is a native of Columbus Ohio and graduated from Duke University.

 

Chris started on January 18th. 

 

Sean Quinn, retired Fairfield City Manager, has been serving as the Interim President/CEO since last summer.

 

For more information contact Chris Rico, President/CEO at 707-864-1855 or Chris @solanoedc.org

 

The Solano EDC is a public-private non-profit organization dedicated for more than 30 years to economic growth in Solano County.